What to Do in Trondheim Norway — Plan Your Trip!

One of Oslo’s Northernmost cities — of course it offers a lot.

Since the eleventh century, thousands have walked the Pilgrim Route from Oslo to Trondheim, Norway. Trondheim, Norway, is the northernmost city in Norway, and this route leads to the northernmost medieval cathedral. The Pilgrim’s Route is 640km long and the history along the route and in Trondheim is just magnificent. That’s why when you try to learn what to do in Trondheim Norway, it’s a long and tiring list.

Check this out, too: Norway Travel Itinerary: Between Fjords and Nature

In modern times, Trondheim has also become a student city and a winter activity hub in Norway. With 210,000 people and 40,000 students, it’s a place that mixes tradition and modernity perfectly. After Bergen and Oslo, Trondheim is one of the cities you must experience in Norway.

One good thing about Trondheim is that it mixes history, art, adventure, and activities together in a very small place. You can visit the Archbishop’s Palace Museum (it’s in the same place as the northernmost medieval cathedral, Nidaros Cathedral) to see the royal scepter and the Crown of Norway for a historical trip. You can try the famous cinnamon buns and experience views from Tyholttårnet’s restaurant during or after. There are also frequent festivals for all people of interest. Rockheim is for music lovers, with tunes from the ’50s to modern Norwegian metal. Trondheim Kunstmuseum has contemporary art, with a vast collection of Norwegian paintings. Bymarka’s greenery is great for calm but scenic views.

I’ll try to list what you can do in Trondheim Norway if you are creating a Trondheim Norway itinerary. There’ll be most major things you can do and less touristy — everyone can find the touristy stuff when they are looking for what to do in Trondheim Norway, right?!

Historic Charm of Trondheim — City Center

Trondheim, Norway has become a student city with over 40,000 students. With this many students, modern life takes its toll even in the city center, leaving the historical background to other areas. That’s why you can feel the historic areas like the historic Trondheim Wharf when you are wandering in the city. The vibes changes and feel nicer. However, even though Trondheim is relatively small, there is also much more to do in the city center. You can have a good time for one or two days, maximum.

Strolling through Bakklandet

Bakklandet is a neighborhood that captures the heart. Its cobblestone streets and colorful wooden homes feel like stepping into a historical scene. It’s a great place for photographers and where old tradition and history meets new, with innovative cafés and shops. The Old City Bridge, known as the “Portal of Happiness,” offers a view of the Nidelva River. It’s surrounded by buildings that tell stories of the past. The river scene is a perfect example of the historic Trondheim Wharf’s beauty.

Bakklandet is more than just a beautiful stroll place. It’s a cultural hub for students, the elderly, adults, art lovers, and others. It reflects the city’s student life with its lively atmosphere. Come here during an arts festival, and you will see how beautifully they mix the history and present.

Arts and Festivals

Trondheim is quite popular for its art scene and the festivals around art and music. It has a lively music culture; you can see it in Bakklandet and other central areas. If you are interested in art or music, Trondheim can give you a good time. In addition to the random musical concerts you will encounter on the streets of Trondheim, there are also a lot of music festivals and art museums. These range from older type of music from the 1950s to the modern art museums, sometimes pop-up museums.

A Melody of Culture at Rockheim

Rockheim Festival is a key part of Trondheim’s music culture. It celebrates Norway’s rock and pop history since the 1950s. The interactive exhibits take you on a journey through the music that has shaped Norway’s culture. Connected to the music, there is Ringve Music Museum, which is great for learning about Norway’s music history and listening to some historical music. It’s filled with musical instruments that tell the story of Norway’s music. Trondheim hosts over 900 festivals every year, including music, food, and cultural ones. The upcoming PoMo art museum (opening 15 February 2025, as of November 2024) will also add to the Trondheim art museum scene.

Just next door, there are many Trondheim art museums, such as K.U.K, Kunsthall Trondheim, and Trondheim Kunstmuseum, have various art forms. It’s a great place to spend a day or two if you are into art. They range from historical Norwegian art to modern and avant-garde expressions.

What to Do in Trondheim Norway: Top Urban Adventures

When you are done with the city center on your Trondheim trip, it’s time to explore the outskirts of the city and learn what you can do there. This is where the actual fun begins — this is what most people come to Trondheim for. Urban activities. You can choose from a lot of different and fun options. The good thing is you don’t have to pay for a tour or stick to a routine, you can do these however you wish.

Trondheim’s Leading Cycling Culture

Biking in Trondheim is more than just a way to get around. It’s an adventure. The Trampe Cyclocable, the world’s first bike lift, is a key part of this culture. It helps cyclists climb Brubakken Hill easily. Imagine going up a steep hill without getting tired. You can enjoy the views of the old town while biking. It’s great for exploring the city’s bike paths and historical sites. In addition, you can also bike outside of the city to go from one city to another. It’s perfect for short-day trips from Trondheim if you are up for that. However, this is generally good during summertime or when the weather allows it in winter.

Kayaking and Picnicking at Munkholmen

Kayaking in Trondheim is peaceful and offers a new view of the city. You can paddle along the Nidelva River and reach Munkholmen Island. This island has a rich history, once a monastery, prison, and fortress. Now, it’s a quiet spot for picnics or swimming. The waters and greenery make it perfect for a day away from the city. It’s a mix of outdoor fun and learning history.

Outdoor Activities: Hiking, Skiing, Biking

Are you an adventure seeker or someone who loves nature but don’t want to do urban stuff? Trondheim offers some sports together with the calmness of nature. Like many other Norwegian spots, you can, of course, also ski, hike, and go sledding with huskies in Trondheim.

For some of this stuff, Trondheim’s Bymarka Forest is perfect. It has over 240 km of trails for Trondheim hiking, biking, and skiing in Norway. Each trail offers a mix of beauty, from forests to views. In winter, the forest becomes a magical place for skiing in Trondheim. There’s the Gråkallen Ski Park for families and Vassfjellet Winter Park with 12 slopes for all. It’s great for both newbies and experienced skiers.

For a calm hike, try Ladestien Path by Trondheimsfjord. It’s not just a walk; it’s a chance to see nature and coastal views. You might even spot local wildlife. Trondheim’s outdoor spots also offer cultural experiences. Imagine having a picnic near Kristiansten Fortress. You can enjoy a meal with city views and learn about Norway’s history.

When to Go to Trondheim Norway: Weather and Activities

Deciding the best time to visit Trondheim is quite important you may not account to plan for. After all, if you don’t like snow and too cold weather, you’ll be very disappointed if you go to Trondheim in January or February. Trondheim Norway is usually quite cold most of the year, but the summer is not so bad.

Trondheim weather changes a lot with the seasons. Summer is great for outdoor concerts and exploring the city. Winter turns Trondheim into a snowy paradise. It’s perfect for skiing and cozying up in a Scandinavian sauna. You can also enjoy Christmas markets and the Blues in Hell festival.

I also have to say that Trondheim is not a city for one season. Every season is unique and has a lot of stuff to do year-round. Visit museums like the Ringve, which has 2,000 musical instruments. Or explore historical sites like the Kristiansten Fortress. Ultimately, you have to pick a season depending on what you want to do.

Day Trips from Trondheim Norway

Trondheim is a small city, so you may be out of things to do in the city center after a few days. Especially if you’ve also done the adventure stuff like skiing, biking, or hiking. Luckily, there are many Trondheim day trips to choose from.

Stiklestad is just 90 km away. It’s where Saint Olav’s story ended. You’ll get to see the Stiklestad National Cultural Center and the Folk Museum. The Trondheim fjord is a must-see while you are there. It’s a gateway to many small islands and peninsulas. Enjoy a cruise or kayak trip to see its beauty.

Oppdal is 120 km from Trondheim. It’s great for skiing in winter and hiking in summer. You can ski at Oppdal Ski Resort and visit the Local Museum. The Hell Blues Festival is another fun experience in Oppdal. It’s close to Trondheim and is for blues fans. You can make a short trip even just for this Festival if you are not into day trips.

Conclusion

Starting a trip to Trondheim Norway is like opening a book full of stories. Stories that involve adventures, calm days, nature, and a lot more. Norway’s third-largest city, Trondheim, is filled with history. You’ll see medieval buildings and the Nidaros Cathedral from the 11th century.

However, you’ll also see that Trondheim is about more than just history. It also has vibrant culture, outdoor fun, and activities. You can hike and kayak right outside the city. You can go skiing either in the Trondheim area or in nearby cities with a short-day trip from Trondheim. You’ll see the Nordland Railway and the Svartisen Glacier. You can also visit the Lofoten Islands and Senja Island, above the Arctic Circle. There, you can see the Northern Lights or enjoy the midnight sun.

You wouldn’t believe it, but Trondheim also has good local cuisine and culture. I guess it’s from the medieval times that created this beautiful history we look at now. Trondheim has tasty fresh and local ingredients.

FAQ

What are the top things to experience in Trondheim, Norway?

You must see the historic Nidaros Cathedral, Bakklandet’s charming streets, and the art at Trondheim’s museums. If music is your thing, visit the festivals like Rockheim.

Outdoor fans will love Bymarka Forest. Urban explorers should try the Trampe Cyclocable and kayak the Nidelva River.

Where can I delve into Trondheim’s music culture?

Rockheim is the place for Trondheim’s music. It has interactive exhibits on Norwegian music. The city also hosts music festivals like Hell Blues Festival.

What outdoor activities are available in Trondheim?

Trondheim offers hiking, skiing, and biking. The Ladestien path by Trondheimsfjord is great for walks. Kristiansten Fortress offers history and views.

When is the best time to visit Trondheim, Norway?

Summer is perfect for festivals and mild weather. Winter is great for skiing and saunas. Each season has its own charm.

Why should Trondheim be included in my Norway itinerary?

Trondheim mixes history, nightlife, nature, and adventure. It was Norway’s capital and was rich in culture. It’s a memorable stop for any traveler.

Originally published at https://euroglimpse.com on November 3, 2024.